Technology Day “Alternative Fuels” at Sonplas
Expert exchange on future propulsion solutions
Alternative fuels play an important role in the further development of sustainable mobility and energy concepts. The technological opportunities they offer, as well as the challenges that need to be addressed, were the focus of the Sonplas Technology Day “Alternative Fuels” held in Straubing on July 29, 2026. The event brought together experts from research, development and industry. In addition to current insights into ammonia, methanol and Power-to-X, the program also presented specific solutions in the fields of injection technology, operational safety, surface coating and test systems.
Expert insights from research and industry
The event was opened by Christian Wachtmeister, Managing Director of Sonplas GmbH. In addition to welcoming the guests, he provided an overview of the company’s history as well as Sonplas’ product and technology portfolio. The technical program began with Annalena Braun from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, who presented new approaches to ammonia-powered engines and CO₂-free propulsion concepts. Marco Ferro from O.M.T. then introduced injection technologies for alternative fuels. His presentation highlighted that fuels such as ammonia and methanol require specially adapted components and injection systems. Martin Sekura from batcH2 engineering focused on the approval and operational safety of ammonia-carrying systems. His contribution outlined the requirements placed on planning, design and safety concepts. Under the title “Charging electric cars with an internal combustion engine?! Sounds crazy, but it makes sense.”, Christian Reiser from WTZ Roßlau explored the combination of combustion engines and electric mobility. His presentation offered new perspectives on how different propulsion technologies can be combined in a meaningful way. Alexander Beck from Net Zero Emission Labs provided insights into Power-to-X processes and demonstrated, using industrial exhaust gases as an example, how CO₂ can be used as a raw material for new products. The presentation program concluded with Marc Kesting from Sturm Surface Technology. He introduced modern cylinder coatings that can contribute to improving engine efficiency and durability.
Technologies in practical application
Following the technical presentations, the focus shifted from theory to practice. During a tour of the methanol and ammonia test center, participants gained insights into the testing of components and systems for alternative fuels. The subsequent company tour took participants through various technology and production areas at Sonplas. The stations included the HERO hydroerosive machining process, a test rig for PEM electrolyzer stacks, as well as further solutions in special-purpose machinery and test systems. The tours provided an opportunity to connect the topics presented earlier with concrete systems and applications and to discuss current challenges and potential fields of application directly with Sonplas experts.
Evening event at the Konrad Auwärter Museum
The Technology Day concluded with a joint evening event at the Konrad Auwärter Museum in Pilsting. In a special atmosphere, participants had the opportunity to continue the conversations of the day and make new connections. One of the highlights of the evening was a presentation by Dr. Konrad Auwärter, who shared personal first-hand insights into the company’s impressive history. A guided tour of the museum rounded off the event. The Technology Day “Alternative Fuels” demonstrated how closely research, component development, plant engineering and test technology are interconnected in the development of new propulsion solutions. The exchange between the different disciplines provides an important foundation for making alternative fuels safe, efficient and viable for industrial use.
Sonplas would like to thank all speakers and participants for their valuable insights and the open exchange.
Impressions from the event
